The ‘Professional and Career Women Awards 2024 – Maldives’ by Women in Management Maldives (WIM Maldives) in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) – a member of the World Bank Group – and the European Union (EU) successfully concluded, honouring exceptional Maldivian women across the country who have made remarkable contributions to their respective fields.

This initiative, which is supported under EU’s regional initiative 'Accelerating Climate Smart and Inclusive Infrastructure in South Asia (ACSIIS)', demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women economically.

The 6th edition of the Awards celebrated women representing diverse professions such as banking and finance, hospitality, media, legal, logistics and supply chains, entrepreneurship, amongst others, for their outstanding achievements and inspiring influence on their communities. The event also recognized Maldivian organizations that have played a pivotal role in promoting women’s business leadership and growth.

The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Dr. Aishath Shiham, Hon Minister of Family and Social Development; Dr. Maryam Mariya, Hon Minister of Higher Education, Labor, and Skills Development; H.E. Mrs. Takeuchi Midori, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives. Additionally, Ms. Barkha Tamrakar, the First Secretary (Political) from the High Commission of India, and Mr. D. Amanulla, Deputy Head of Mission of the Sri Lankan High Commission were in attendance. Several other State Ministers and Deputy Ministers also honored the occasion with their presence.

"The Professional & Career Women Awards in the Maldives celebrate a decade-long partnership between WIM and IFC, now extended with EU’s support to promote sustainability and diversity. WIM Maldives is committed to empowering the 2024 Award winners to become role models for equitable and inclusive workplaces. This collaboration underscores our shared vision for women’s leadership as a cornerstone of sustainable growth," said Sulochana Segera, Founder and Chairperson of Women in Management (WIM).

Speaking about the awards, Wendy Werner, Country Manager for IFC India and Maldives said, “Globally and in the Maldives, companies are increasingly recognizing that they can gain greater competitive advantage and improve profits by targeting women as employees, entrepreneurs, consumers and business leaders. As we celebrate the inspiring women across the Maldives, a unique opportunity exists to further strengthen, promote, and amplify their voices as professionals and leaders in the private and public sectors. These awards are a testament to this, and an inspiration for many more brilliant and ambitious women everywhere – and IFC is honored to be a part of this journey.”

Highlighting the partnership, Dr. Johann Hesse, the Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to the Maldives stated, “The women recognized are not just leaders in their respective fields but are also architects of change. Their achievements resonate with the European Union's commitment to creating sustainable and inclusive economies where women thrive as equal participants and decision-makers. ACSIIS is our flagship program under the Global Gateway initiative that aims to foster climate-resilient development in South Asia and through this collaboration we aim to amplify women's voices and support their endeavours to build a resilient & equitable future.”

Speaking at the event, Minha Faiz Rashaad, President of WIM Maldives, remarked, “Women, especially women of color, face barriers to leadership often imposed by systems that fear their potential. I want my daughters to grow up seeing women in leadership as a reality, not just a dream. Equality is not just a women’s issue—it’s a social issue that requires men to stand with women and challenge systems of oppression. When women lead, everyone thrives.” She also highlighted, “Even in a geographically dispersed country like ours, women are breaking barriers and leading their communities. This year’s awards, held in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation and the European Union, mark a significant step toward advancing gender equality and creating lasting change in the Maldives and beyond.”

With over 50 nominations, the judging, which was conducted purely based on merit, was chaired by Fathimath Manike, Development Banking Director at Bank of Maldives. Joining her on the panel are Abdul Latheef, President of SME Federation Maldives; Manoji Wadugodapitiya, Managing Director of PAMS Hydro Group, Sri Lanka; Mariam Waheeda, Permanent Member of Maldives Scout and Guide Fellowship; Pramita Ray, Gender Specialist for South Asia at IFC; and Dr. Ravi Dissanayake, Professor in the Department of Marketing Management, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka.

Speaking about the award winners, Panel Chair Fathimath Manike stated, “We observed that some candidates failed to include details of their achievements in their profiles, which were later highlighted upon query and during the interview process. Due importance was given to education, skills, and the impact the candidates have made in creating opportunities and supporting other women and the community as a whole. Additionally, candidates who have worked in their current positions for less than two years were not considered. They must serve a minimum of two years in their role before applying for the next award.”

The ‘Professional and Career Women Awards – Maldives’ was powered by gold sponsor – Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), partner – Medtech, Supporting Partner – Maldives National University, host partner – Kurumba Maldives and media partner – One Media Group.

With over 170 past award winners from Maldives, the ‘Professional and Career Women Awards – Maldives’ aims to showcase the significant role women play as leaders, employees, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders in contributing to sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the country.